laisse tomber
The English phrase 'never mind' can be translated into French as laisse tomber.
This phrase is used to tell someone not to be concerned about something.
Meaning: do not be concerned (about someone or something, or about doing something) (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The expression laisse tomber literally means 'let it fall' or 'drop it'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
laisse tomber is an informal way to say 'never mind' or 'forget about it'.
Did you know?
- The word tomber in laisse tomber once meant 'to dance' or 'do somersaults' in Old French.
- If you use laisse tomber with a boss or a stranger, it might sound dismissive or even rude because it is strictly informal.
- French uses the same verb tomber for things that fall, but also for things that 'fall' in love (tomber amoureux).
Examples in context
- Je ne suis plus intéressé par ce sujet. Ne tenez pas compte de cela.I'm no longer interested in this topic. Never mind.
- J'ai fait une erreur dans ma demande précédente. Oubliez ce que j'ai dit.I made a mistake in my previous request. Never mind what I said.
- J'ai changé d'avis, je ne veux plus sortir ce soir. Laisse tomber.I changed my mind, I don't want to go out tonight. Never mind.
- J'ai gâché le repas, mais n'y pense plus.I ruined the meal, but never mind.
- Laisse tomber, ce n'est pas important.Never mind, it's not important.
- Laisse tomber ce que j'ai dit.Never mind what I said.
- Si c'est trop dur, laisse tomber.If it's too hard, just forget it.
Example conversation
Gabriel is trying to explain a mistake to Manon, but decides it is not worth the effort.
- GabrielJe voulais t'expliquer mon erreur, Manon.I wanted to explain my mistake to you, Manon.
- ManonQu'est-ce que tu as fait, Gabriel ?What did you do, Gabriel?
- GabrielLaisse tomber, c'est trop long à expliquer.Never mind, it's too long to explain.
- ManonD'accord, pas de problème.Okay, no problem.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tomber, CC BY-SA 4.0.
